Author and nationally recognized journalist Peter Lovenheim will be the keynote speaker at the first installment of The Bellevue Neighborhoods Forum from 7-9 p.m. April 6 in the Council Chambers at Bellevue City Hall.

The forum is a two-part education and discussion event for and about neighborhoods. The goal is to ring neighbors together for an opportunity to learn, share and think about the future of their neighborhoods.

Lovenheim, a resident of Rochester, NY, for most of his life, recalls the neighborhood of his childhood when more families were well acquainted, kids played together and neighbors looked out for each other.

Shaken by a recent murder-suicide in the neighborhood, Lovenheim set out to meet his neighbors and establish real and lasting relationships that go far beyond occasional and casual greetings. He actually convinced his neighbors to allow him to spend the night in their homes, share their meals and accompany them to work.

Lovenheim documents his experiences, and his conclusions about creating a sense of community in modern American neighborhoods, in his book, “In the Neighborhood: The Search for Community on an American Street, One Sleepover at a Time.”

In a book, Lovenheim talks about making friends, creating connections and exploring the strength and vitality of neighborhoods that build and nurture close bonds among those who live there. Copies of the book will be available for purchase.

After the keynote talk, forum participants will have a chance to enjoy refreshments courtesy of sponsors, Vovito Caffé and Gelato and The French Bakery while engaging in discussion groups about creating their own neighborhood connections. Participants will explore how to move forward, overcome obstacles and find support for their community building efforts.

The second installment of The Bellevue Neighborhoods Forum will continue the theme of building vibrant and connected communities and will be held May 12 at the Crossroads Community Center. This forum will focus on the changing demographics in Bellevue and engagement with youth, seniors and diverse populations. Dinner will be courtesy of forum sponsor, Chipotle Mexican Grill.

Neighborhood Association sponsors include Surrey Downs Community Club, Sunset Community Association, Somerset Community Association, Newport Hills Community Club, Horizon Heights Community Association, Horizon Crest  Community Association and and Whispering Heights/Collingwood Community Association.

For more information on the Bellevue Neighborhoods Forum, contact Neighborhood Outreach at 425-452-6836 or email NeighborhoodOutreach@bellevuewa.gov.